Jessica Heygate
Updated on: October 14, 2024 2:10 pm GMT
In a significant leap for the gaming and casino industries, Konami Gaming Inc. and Xailient Inc. have expanded their innovative facial recognition technology, SYNK Vision, to include table games. This enhancement promises to revolutionize player tracking and improve operational efficiency in casinos across the United States and beyond.
Facial Recognition Technology for Table Games
Last November, Konami and Xailient launched SYNK Vision, initially aimed at electronic gaming machines (EGMs). In a recent announcement, they revealed that SYNK Vision has been upgraded to facilitate instant recognition for players at table games. This advancement is set to streamline player tracking and enhance customer service, making it easier for casinos to manage their operations.
Key features of the upgraded SYNK Vision include:
- Instant Login Capabilities: The system allows for both known (carded) and optional anonymous (unknown) player recognition.
- Smart Cameras: These cameras are designed to detect players as they sit at gaming tables, ensuring seamless integration with existing player ratings systems.
- AI-Powered Efficiency: By automating player identification and verification, SYNK Vision minimizes human error and accelerates the gaming experience.
Tom Soukup, Senior Vice President and Chief Systems Product Officer at Konami Gaming, emphasized the technology’s potential to alleviate the growing pressures faced by table game staff. He stated, “SYNK Vision returns the staff to their core role in customer service and entertainment faster.”
Edge AI: A Game Changer for Casinos
One notable aspect of the SYNK Vision system is its use of Edge AI technology. Unlike traditional methods that rely on transmitting video for processing in servers or cloud systems, Edge AI enables the smart cameras to perform data processing on-site. This reduces the need for extensive infrastructure overhauls, making it easier and more cost-effective for casinos to implement the technology.
Lars Oleson, Chief Executive of Xailient, described Edge AI as “a game changer,” as it allows for swift deployments without the associated costs and risks of major upgrades. This promises to empower casinos with advanced technological solutions while maintaining operational integrity.
Meeting Regulatory Demands
As regulatory landscapes evolve, especially in regions like Asia-Pacific and Australia, the demand for secure player identification grows. Gerard Crosby, Senior Vice President and Chief Games Product Officer at Konami Gaming, noted that the SYNK Vision technology is crucial for ensuring compliance with regulations tied to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) transactions and promotional activities.
“The players’ secure and unique identity becomes key to good operational governance of casinos,” Crosby added, highlighting the technology’s role in fostering industry standards.
Upcoming Releases in Gaming
In other news from the gaming sector, anticipation is building for the release of the Silent Hill 2 Remake, which will be a console exclusive for PlayStation 5 for one year. As reported recently, Bloober Team’s remake will be available on other platforms starting October 8, 2025.
With its upgrades, including 4K graphics, 3D audio, and immersive gameplay features like haptic feedback, the remake aims to breathe new life into the beloved classic. A recent “immersion” trailer showcased how these features enhance the gaming experience, as well as the gameplay mechanics that allow for a more engaging interaction with the game’s atmosphere.
Future gaming fans can expect:
- UI Options: Players will have the option to remove all user interface elements for an intense immersive experience.
- 90’s Filter: A dedicated filter to evoke the nostalgia of classic gaming.
- Extended Gameplay: Completionists may spend over 20 hours uncovering all the hidden elements within the game.
Tom Morgan from Eurogamer remarked on the new combat mechanics, stating, “In rebuilding such a beloved classic with upgraded visuals and controls, the new combat style fits in surprisingly well.”
Conclusion
The integration of SYNK Vision technology into table games marks a significant step forward for the casino industry, promising to enhance player experiences and improve operational management. Meanwhile, the gaming community eagerly awaits the arrival of the Silent Hill 2 Remake, which is poised to set new standards for horror gaming. As these innovations unfold, both sectors are prepared for a transformative era in entertainment technology.
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